Submit a PhotoSylvia Landers, 76, of Gilbert, AZ, formerly of Freeport, IL, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 8, 1947, in Rockford, IL, she was the cherished daughter of Adolph and Dorothy (Cassioppi) Gradozzi.
Sylvia’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and community spirit. She graduated from West High School in 1965. She shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband, Michael Landers, whom she married on April 12, 1969. Together, they nurtured SML Enterprises, Inc., a family business, while actively participating in community endeavors. Sylvia dedicated her time to volunteering at her children’s schools and was a valued member of the Freeport area P.E.O.
Remembered fondly for her warmth and generosity, Sylvia welcomed everyone into her home and treated everyone like family. Her passion for baking earned her the endearing title of the “cookie lady.” Cooking, entertaining, and creating cherished moments with loved ones were at the heart of her joyful existence. Sylvia’s love for art, music, and tennis and her memorable moments in Fort Myers, FL, enriched her life’s vibrant tapestry.
She embraced each day wholeheartedly, finding immense joy in the company of her children, grandchildren, and cherished friends. Sylvia’s legacy of kindness and joy will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know her.
She leaves behind a loving family to honor her memory: her children, David (Lynette) Landers of Fort Myers, FL; Kristine Landers of Anaheim, CA; Amy (Jim) Bacher of Gilbert, AZ; grandchildren, Ethan and Megan Landers; her brother Dominic (Earlene) Gradozzi; brothers-in-law, Jasper Rotello and Brian (Joan) Landers; nephews, Dominic Gradozzi Jr, Joe and Jason (Abbie) Rotello, Scott (Sarah) , Steve (Wendy) and Mike Sigler, Sean (Dana) and Mark Landers and nieces Tami (Mickey) Goral, Michelle (Ted) Gaffney and Beth Osborne. Also surviving are many great-nieces and nephews.
Sylvia Landers was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Landers; her parents, Adolph and Dorothy Gradozzi; her parents-in-law, Raymond and Inez Landers; sisters, Pamela Rotello and Cynthia Sigler; and brother-in-law, Gary Sigler.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Autism Speaks. Autismspeaks.org
Sylvia’s legacy of love, generosity, and zest for life will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Per her request, no services will be held.
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I had many good times with Sylvia at our Dinner group in Rockford for many years and conversing on Facebook after she moved. Great lady! RIP